Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded nearly $8.8 million to 12 small and rural communities across Northwest Florida to support critical infrastructure investments and community development projects. The funding, awarded through the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and the Community Planning Technical Assistance (CPTA) Grant Program, will support projects that strengthen local infrastructure, enhance community resiliency and promote long-term economic growth.
“This morning in Bonifay, I was pleased to announce more than $8.8 million in funding for critical infrastructure and community development projects in 12 small and rural Florida communities,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “These Community Development Block Grant awards will help improve water and wastewater systems, stormwater infrastructure, roads, and workforce housing. These investments promote long-term economic growth that will help rural Florida families thrive for many years to come.”
“Strong infrastructure and thoughtful community planning are essential to creating opportunities in Florida’s small and rural communities,” said Secretary of Commerce, J. Alex Kelly. “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, these investments will help communities address critical water, wastewater, roadway and infrastructure needs while strengthening economic readiness and long-term resiliency. These projects give local leaders the resources they need to build stronger communities, support businesses and create greater opportunities for Floridians.”
The following communities will receive an award through the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program:
- City of Blountstown ($1,185,576) – to implement critical improvements to its aging wastewater collection and treatment facility.
- City of Bonifay ($1,500,000) – to construct utility infrastructure improvements through the Decon Road Sewer Extension project.
- City of Bristol ($786,440) – to address potable water issues associated with the Shuler Lane well and waterline replacement project.
- City of Gretna ($1,257,800) – to implement improvements to the City’s wastewater treatment facility, and paving and roadway improvements along 6th Street.
- Franklin County ($1,769,250) – to improve water and sewer infrastructure while supporting future workforce housing development.
- Liberty County ($1,260,540) – to improve the Bristol Boat Ramp roadway, providing primary access to the Apalachicola River.
- Town of Malone ($622,375) – to rehabilitate two potable water wells and improve the town’s public water system.
The following communities will receive an award through the Community Planning Technical Assistance (CPTA) Grant Program:
- Apalachee Regional Planning Council ($75,000) – to conduct a Regional Vertiport Study for the following counties: Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty and Wakulla.
- City of Chipley ($75,000) – to complete an Economic Readiness and Planning Implementation Strategy.
- City of Freeport ($75,000) – to update the City’s Comprehensive Plan to support long-term industrial and commercial development.
- Holmes County ($75,000) – to develop the County’s GIS and Public Planning Map.
- Town of Century ($75,000) – to develop a hydraulic model of the Town’s municipal drinking water system.
The Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by FloridaCommerce, provides funding to eligible local governments for infrastructure, housing and economic development activities that principally benefit low- and moderate-income residents. The Community Planning Technical Assistance Grant Program provides funding to support communities in creating strategic plans to address local economic challenges, meet statutory planning requirements and assist in community resiliency efforts.
